What a week it’s been! I almost let my 5 year milestone slip by unannounced, but then I would have missed out on so much fun, sharing it with friends and reflecting on the relationships that have resulted. Today’s guests include artists, magazine editors, writers, bloggers and shop owners. All of them wearing multiple hats.

I was touched beyond measure when my wonderful, long time blog (and real life) friend, Patricia van Essche, aka PvE, illustrated her vision of what my shop would look like, should I ever take the plunge! She incorporated elements of my home, the pink tulips (of course), a little animal print, a bar cart loaded with champagne and pink petals leading the way. A dream of a shop!!! I think it’s so fun seeing what others envision for you. I might keep my eyes open for the perfect storefront!

Patricia also shared this perfect-in-pink table setting, from The Pink Pagoda, that she could imagine for my “party”. I might just have to copy this one!

Patricia came into my life, unexpectedly, when she illustrated my home which had been featured on the blog of my next two guests.

It was complete serendipity. This illustration hangs by my desk so that I see it every day. It also marked a moment that drew me into the world of blogs. So, you could say, Patricia is a huge part of why I jumped into this world. Thank you, my dear friend!

Next up is a pretty pink tea party setting by my long time friends, muses and now authors, Eddie Ross and Jaithan Kochar. These are the kind of friends that you say, “I knew them when….” They have been an overnight success in the making for as long as I’ve known them. They compliment one another perfectly and their talent is only dwarfed by the size and generosity of their hearts.

I’m not sure if there is anyone more excited about their debut book, Modern Mix, than me! Having watched these two up close for the past 5 years, I know I’m not overselling when I say this is going to be your new favorite book. Their style is instantly recognizable so with their first book they are going to break things down for you, de-mystify how to spot something worthwhile and then how to incorporate it into your own home and style.

Also at the party today, is another long time friend, Carolyn McDonough, who along with her twin sister, Cynthia, are at the helm of a faux flower empire, Diane James Home. The business was started by their mom, Diane, whose designs were so lifelike that they became in instant sensation with Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, numerous specialty shops and the darling of both television and magazine editorial work.

For today’s soiree, Carolyn sent me a photo of real tulips that she picked up just for the celebration! Thank you, Carolyn!!!

Some people come into you life and you know it was just meant to be. That’s the case with Sue De Chiara, known broadly as The Zhush! Sue and I were introduced shortly after we started our blogs by mutual friends. Sue and I have attended blog conferences, cocktail parties, Blogshop and numerous other blog related events. She taught me why and how to use Twitter and Instagram and I remember when she first had the idea for her online shop. Along the way, I gained an amazing real life friend, who I would enjoy whether we were talking about parenting, art or vacations.

These are the tulips Sue picked up for the occasion! Love the pink combined with the blue and white!

So, there you have it. Why blogging has been so much fun and so rewarding. I’ve learned it’s not about the number of comments, the number of followers or your google analytics. Sure, those things are a nice window into how you are translating into a broader audience, but it has been the relationships and friendships that I look back on and appreciate the most.

There are many others….and I hope you all know who you are…that have enriched my life and welcomed me into this ever-changing worlds of blogs. I have no idea what the next 5 years holds….but for now, I’m savoring the moment and excited about what the future might hold.

Thank you to every one of you who has stopped by regularly or just now and then. I know you’re out there and I appreciate it more than you’ll ever now!

Thanks to all who entered my give away for a personalized copy of Danielle Rollins’ fabulous party planning book, Soiree: Entertaining with Style! I loved reading what kind of party you would have Danielle plan for you.

The winner of the give away is The Buzz by Diane James Home…written by twin sisters, Carolyn and Cynthia! Their blog is all about the botanical take on what’s in style, as it’s their family business, Diane James Home, that supplies those stunning faux flowers for stores, such as Neiman Marcus & Bergdorf Goodman.

Congratulations, ladies! Between your flowers and Danielle’s inspiration, you’re sure to create a memorable holiday season at home.

Are you hibernating this winter at home or are you joining friends for ski weekends and cozy dinner parties? This time of year, I must admit to my desire to nestle in at home a bit. But, for all of you out there tearing up the social scene, here are some of my favorite hostess gifts for winter gatherings!

Just when you’re ready to move on from the holiday scents….the ladies at Diane James Home have created a winter candle, inspired by the idea of walking through a lush forest on a crisp winter day…soft pine, red berries and a hint of Spring to come. Divine!

And, for your friends who prefer to spike their cozy bedtime treats….this fun book can be found at Terrain.

Whether you’re cuddling with your favorite book and blanket in front of a fire this weekend or rocking the ski lodge, have a wonderful winter weekend. Enjoy the shorter days and longer nights!